§ 36. Mr. Rankinasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has yet reached a decision on the future of Malta as a result of his discussions with the Governor.
§ 41. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if the discussions with the Governor of Malta respecting the constitutional future of the island have now been completed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydMy discussions with the Governor are nearly over and I hope to make a statement before the House rises.
§ Mr. RankinWould not the Colonial Secretary think it a worth-while gesture at the moment to release those who are held in political detention, and, secondly, to consider the advisability of withdrawing the emergency regulations?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydNo, Sir—to both questions.
§ Mr. AwberyIs the Minister aware that Friday, when the House rises, coincides with three months of emergency in Malta? Will he now consider allowing the state of emergency to die a natural death? May I also ask him to give further consideration to the constitution that he proposed a few months ago? Further, is he aware that a commercial undertaking has offered to do the work in the dockyard, but that it proposes to employ only 4,000 men, instead of 13,000? Will the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that alternative employment will be found for the remainder?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe hon. Member will be well advised to await my statement.